The European Union (EU) on Wednesday launched a project to support around 8,000 individuals severely affected by the violence and disruption which occurred during the July-August 2024 uprising in Bangladesh.
The “Pathways to Healing: A Survivor Centred Approach to Address Violence and Human Rights Violations” intervention will be implemented by the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society (BDRCS), through the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies (IFRC), in close collaboration with the government of Bangladesh and other stakeholders.
The EUR 2 million grant project is fully funded by the European Union and is scheduled to be implemented until August 2026, said the EU Embassy in Dhaka.
The primary focus of the initiative is to improve the physical and psychological well-being of survivors of violence, to enhance their economic resilience, and to strengthen social cohesion, as both the government of Bangladesh and the EU identify that severe needs continue to exist.
To achieve these goals, the project will provide access to medical services and rehabilitation, as well as assistive devices to those facing physical challenges; support existing health facilities with pharmaceutical products and medical equipment; offer tailored mental health and psychosocial support, including counselling and referrals, and support a help line facility to ensure sustainable assistance; support recovery and diversification of income-generating activities to foster community cohesion and resilience; and organise opportunities for dialogue and collaboration among a wide range of stakeholders to foster social cohesion.
The project will be implemented in Dhaka, Chattogram, Khulna, Rangpur and Rajshahi divisions, targeting persons directly affected by last year’s events, including students, workers, journalists, their families, and others.
An important objective is to ensure continuity of support beyond the project period through strong coordination with government agencies and stakeholders, integration into existing government health and social support systems, and sustainable livelihood market linkages, said the EU Embassy.
Source: UNB
Bd-pratidin English/FNC
